Russian President Vladimir Putin has proposed resuming direct peace talks with Ukraine in Istanbul as early as May 15, offering negotiations "without preconditions" to seek a "sustainable peace" and address the root causes of the ongoing conflict. The proposal comes on the heels of a high-profile visit to Kyiv by the leaders of France, Germany, the United Kingdom, and Poland, who, alongside U.S. President Donald Trump, have called for an immediate and unconditional 30-day ceasefire beginning May 12.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy described Putin’s offer as a “positive sign,” noting that it is the first time in months that Russia appears open to ending the war. However, Zelenskyy stressed that meaningful negotiations can only begin if Russia first agrees to a full, reliable ceasefire. “The very first step in truly ending any war is a ceasefire,” Zelenskyy stated, adding that Ukraine is ready to meet once Moscow confirms a halt to hostilities.
Putin’s invitation for talks follows Moscow’s rejection of the Western-backed ceasefire proposal, with the Kremlin insisting that negotiations should proceed without “ultimatums”. The Russian leader said he would discuss the logistics of the proposed Istanbul talks with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and reiterated that Russia is prepared to negotiate, referencing the 2022 draft agreement that called for Ukrainian neutrality in exchange for international security guarantees.
While Ukraine has welcomed the prospect of renewed diplomacy, officials maintain that any talks are contingent on Russia’s commitment to an immediate truce. “There is no point in continuing the killing even for a single day,” Zelenskyy posted on social media, urging Moscow to confirm a ceasefire starting May 12.
The international community is closely watching for Russia’s response, as the possibility of direct talks offers a rare opening for de-escalation after more than three years of war. For now, Kyiv’s position remains clear: peace negotiations can only begin after guns fall silent.
